DILI, 18 November 2025 — Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economy, Tourism and Environment, Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, officially launched a three-day seminar on “Doing Business with Malaysia” in Dili, held from 18 to 20 November as part of the Export Acceleration Mission to Timor-Leste.
The mission, organized by the Malaysian Embassy and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), runs until 21 November and brings together 19 Malaysian companies from multiple sectors to identify trade and investment opportunities between the two countries following Timor-Leste’s recent full accession to ASEAN.
In his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Kalbuadi Lay highlighted the significance of Timor-Leste’s ASEAN membership, formally achieved on 26 October 2025. He said the historic milestone opens new avenues for regional trade, investment, and economic integration. He also acknowledged Malaysia’s support during its ASEAN chairmanship and recognized the country’s commitment to Timor-Leste’s accession process.
The seminar presented businesses from both nations with opportunities in sectors such as oil and gas, food and beverages, information and communication technologies, construction, professional services, education, technical training, and biotechnology. The program featured product presentations, one-on-one business meetings, and an exhibition designed to facilitate networking and identify areas of shared interest.
Kalbuadi Lay stressed that Timor-Leste, now a full ASEAN member, benefits from wider markets, harmonized standards, and improved logistical conditions. He said these advantages are particularly relevant for strengthening economic ties with Malaysia. He noted growing foreign investor interest in infrastructure, renewable energy, and ecotourism.
The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the Government’s readiness to support companies looking to explore business opportunities in Timor-Leste, encouraging direct engagement with his office or with TradeInvest to facilitate processes and ensure suitable conditions for investment.
Malaysian Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Amarjit Sarjit Singh, also addressed the seminar, emphasizing the increasingly favorable business environment. He pointed to recent developments such as direct flights between Dili and Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste’s visa-free entry for Malaysian citizens. He highlighted priority areas including energy, digitalization, agriculture and food security, infrastructure, technical education, and logistics.
The participation of the 19 Malaysian companies marks the beginning of a deeper phase of economic cooperation aimed at identifying concrete projects and strengthening bilateral trade. The event also gathered representatives from the Timor-Leste Chamber of Commerce and Industry and around 50 national companies, helping expand dialogue between the private sectors of both countries.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
